Source: Team_Talk
Grant resigns from Pompey gaffer post
Avram Grant has resigned as Portsmouth manager after "a lot of searching" and is widely expected to take the managerial reins at West Ham.[LNB] The Israeli won widespread praise for the way he led the club amid financial turmoil which resulted in administration, but was unable to save them from relegation from the Premier League.[LNB]He did, though, guide Pompey to an FA Cup final appearance. That game proved to be Grant's last in charge, and he is now expected to be appointed as Gianfranco Zola's successor at Upton Park.[LNB]The Italian parted company with the Hammers last week.[LNB]Grant explained his decision to resign in an emotional open letter to fans on the club's official website.[LNB]"This was one of the most difficult decisions I've had to take in my football career. After a lot of soul searching and under the circumstances I'm taking a different direction," Grant said.[LNB]"It's been both a difficult and complex year for us at the club, but at the same time, it's been a wonderful and uplifting professional and personal experience.[LNB]"I have been inundated with letters and emails from fans. Many have brought tears to my eyes and take it from me; it takes a lot to do that. I will never forget you, the loyal fans of Pompey who, without a doubt, helped me protect the team under such complex circumstances.[LNB]"There are very few teams in the world that have fans as passionate and devoted as you are. Seeing you all so proud with your heads held up high is the best reward I can receive.[LNB]"It has been a great experience to be part of one of the most wonderful occurrences that has happened in the history of British football and also shows that even in the most desperate times, loyalty, devotion, professionalism and passion can be demonstrated. I wish you all the possible success which you genuinely deserve."[LNB]Grant took over at Fratton Park from Paul Hart in November.[LNB]His time in the hotseat, though, was beset by off-field problems as the full scale of their financial trouble began to emerge. The club went into administration in February and the following month were deducted nine points by the Premier League which all but condemned them to relegation.[LNB]Grant, whose side finished the season bottom of the table with 19 points, still managed to lead them to the FA Cup final, though. They went down 1-0 to his former side Chelsea at Wembley last weekend, having claimed a shock last-four success over Tottenham.[LNB]The Israeli's statement continued: "Portsmouth has given me a feeling of home away from home.[LNB]"I might be leaving Portsmouth physically, but you cannot take Portsmouth away from me and my heart.[LNB]"I have informed Andrew (Andronikou) the administrator that if and when the need arises, I will be at his disposal to assist in any way I possibly can.[LNB]"At this point I would like to mention the good job the administrator is doing, under very difficult circumstances after he received the club from Mr Chernoi and Mr Levy which they had saved from liquidation. Thank you for that.[LNB]"I can never fully repay the faith and backing I got from the fans, players and staff who gave 100%. I truly thank you all for granting me the opportunity and the privilege to be part of your special city and unique club."[LNB]Portsmouth's former chief executive Peter Storrie praised the work Grant did during a tough time at Fratton Park, and claimed his next club would be getting an accomplished manager.[LNB]"He came to Portsmouth, fell in love with the club and did a magnificent job," Storrie, who stepped down in March, told Sky Sports News.[LNB]"He's very easy going, very laid back, but he's got this ability to inspire players and put his arms around them. He explains the game in detail to them.[LNB]"What he did get was a tremendous team spirit among everybody.[LNB]"He gave absolutely everything, he gelled all the players together, got them playing as a unit. He couldn't have done anything more.[LNB]"This will be a very difficult decision for him. He loves the club and the fans he'll have thought long and hard about this.[LNB]"Wherever he goes I'm sure he'll be a success. I'm sure he'll want to stay in the Premier League but I'm sure he'll have offers from all around the world."
